7 Ways to Prevent Tearing During Childbirth

All pregnancy is both a pain and a joy, some mothers-to-be just have a different percentage of the experience of each emotion. But no matter how the rest of the pregnancy was to us, we all share one emotion when it comes to childbirth- fear of tearing.

But there are ways to help you sleep better during the nights before labor starts. You will sleep better because you will know better!

Here are some practical things you can do that might reduce your risk of tearing during childbirth – or at least, reduce the severity of your tear. Phew!!

1. Use a Warm Compress During Birth

Bear with me, I know it doesn’t sound like much, but applying warmth to your perineum during crowning can help prevent the worst tearing – and give you some relief!

This is a really simple technique and it literally takes no time to set it up. It is perfect for when you’re in labor and need something NOW!

2. Have a Waterbirth

Naturally, if you’re having a waterbirth, you’ll already be feeling the benefits of warm water. It is proven that brave ladies who had the natural birth actually experienced significantly less tearing during pushing because they could pace themselves more accurately and also felt at ease because of the warm water.

If you find that a waterbirth isn’t your ideal birth plan, don’t worry. A good tip is also that just take a warm shower right before pushing starts (or whenever the latest possible).!

3. Change Your Positions

Most probably than not, the majority of us have only seen childbirth on TV. And the mama is usually shown lying flat on her back, holding her /long lost, but arrived in the last second/ husband.

Well, I am here to break the myth. Laying flat on the back actually this isn’t the easiest position to give birth in, because it makes for a smaller opening for baby to get through. And let’s not forget gravity. Any upright and open position may help you avoid tearing.

4. Perineal Massage

Perineal massage is basically massaging the area between your vagina and bottom in your last trimester to prepare for the stretch of childbirth. Honestly, for a lot of you, your reaction will be a straight-up ‘No’ from me! But if you’re up for it, perineal massage might help prevent tearing during childbirth.

5. Use a Lubricant

In your third trimester of pregnancy, it is recommended to start using a lubricant like a coconut oil or some essential oils to massage your perineum. You can massage the area where tearing is prone and around.

6. Try Swimming

Giving birth is harder than any exercises you will or have ever done! So make sure you’re physically ready for labor by doing some exercise; now, I’m not saying about running the marathon, but if you have an option to visiting an indoor pool around your home or better yet, swim out n the open sea, your boy will be grateful for such preparations. As exercise improves circulation and skin elasticity, this is a simple and easy way to help prevent tearing during childbirth.

Since every pregnancy is unique it is strongly recommended that you always speak to the appropriate medical professional before undertaking any exercise program.

7. Do Kegel Exercisess

One type of beneficial exercise to open up your pelvic muscles is to do some kegals, or pelvic floor exercises. These types of exercises can also prevent pain in labor and any leakage that may happen!

Kegel exercises have you tighten and relax your vagina muscles. These are easy to do while you watch TV or even in the car.

* this should NOT be taken as medical advice. Although lots of women have found these tips to relieve pain in childbirth, each birth is different and so they may not work for you. If in doubt, please seek appropriate medical advice.